Why You Should ALWAYS Answer a Recruiter’s Call

They always seem to call at the worst time. No, I’m not talking about telemarketers. I’m talking about recruiters. You know the drill, you spend a year looking for the perfect job, you find it, you take it, and three months later there’s a recruiter calling you about an even better job. You think to yourself, “But I just took this job. I’m happy, aren’t I? But don’t I want more money? More responsibility? Oooh, maybe I could move to NYC!” The list of excitement pops through your head, but so does a huge list of doubts. “Won’t I look like a ‘job hopper’? What will everyone think? How will I explain this to my boss, mom, spouse, etc.?” So usually, we say something like, “Now isn’t the right time, but thanks for thinking of me.”

First of all, there is no better time for someone to evaluate an opportunity and company with a clear mind without any negative, outside influences or external pressures. The worst time to go to the grocery store is when you’re hungry. You’re more likely to buy food that you know is not in your best long-term interests.

It’s no different when it comes to only talking to recruiters when they’re actively looking for a new job. Opportunities will appear to be more appealing than they really are when you’re currently unsatisfied in your position or company. When an individual looks into an opportunity when they’re happy, they can vividly see how the opportunity would positively or negatively impact their career since they’re not trying to fill a void. An employee is more likely to settle for a lesser position when they’re unhappy than they would have if they were content.

You might not take the job! So stop thinking about the offer before the interview. Even if you’re new in a job, be open to possibilities. It could change your life and your career. Or it could amount to nothing and you’re perfectly fine where you are. But denying opportunity? Never a good idea.

About the Author

Marcy Twete

Marcy Twete is a career fundraiser turned corporate responsibility executive, a career and networking expert and the author of the book "You Know Everybody! A Career Girl’s Guide to Building a Network That Works."